Starting a business can be a daunting task, but SCORE and Canon are here to help simplify it for you.

There are a number of factors to keep in mind before starting your own business. This module will introduce you to key business considerations such as the myths and realities of entrepreneurship, different business options to pursue, the components of business ownership, legal and financial considerations, and the business plan basics.

If you’re thinking about starting your own business, this module will give you the understanding you need to be well informed and confident when you evaluate your ideas.

In the full Simple Steps for Starting Your Business online course, you will test the feasibility of your business idea and decide whether or not you should move forward or go back to the drawing board. You'll do this by researching industry profile data, customer data, financial projections, and other information. You'll also have a sample feasibility plan to use as a guide.

Once you've finished this module, make sure to take the remaining workshops:

Contact your local chapter and determine if the in-person workshops are available in your community. At the in-person workshop, you will get more information, learn from local experts, connect with your personal mentor for free answers to your business questions, and meet other aspiring small business owners.

SCORE Volunteer Contributions

Thanks to the following SCORE volunteers who served as subject matter experts in the development of these new Simple Steps for Starting Your Business eLearning modules!

Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. With approximately $36 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc., is one of Fortune Magazine's World’s Most Admired Companies in 2014. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest level of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. Learn more at usa.canon.com.